@katebutlerphotography
Kieran showing his school spirit on the SHS football team
As a varsity football player, winner of student of the month, and active member in the community, Kieran McKenna has a lot to say about Somerville. He is an avid member of the community and actively seeks to make change both inside and outside of the high school. His freshmen year he instantly joined numerous extracurriculars including genesis club, football, track and field, spanish club, and character education, and was selected as a student ambassador. Though football has been his favorite activity to participate in, McKenna has found joy in meeting new people and helping the community in all his activities. When asked why football means so much to him, McKenna replied, “it’s more than just a community or sport. As corny as it sounds, it really is like a family.” He’s a firm believer in working hard for what you get, and says that, “[football] teaches you hard discipline, but it’s the hard things that make us stronger.”
Aside from football, McKenna has hundreds of fond memories surrounding Somerville High School. He particularly loves the student and staff relationships. He wants to give a special shout out to Mrs. Iannuzzi, Mrs. Appezzato, Coach Bloom, and Coach Hoehn for always supporting him and motivating him to be better both on and off the field.
“The Staff shapes our futures” – Kieran McKenna, 2025
Somerville is a highly impactful community that has positively changed the lives of its community members. McKenna himself has grown a lot since the start of his high school career. He says that Somerville has taught him kindness and patience. “You never know what people are going through, so you just gotta be kind,” he says.
Coming from Branchburg, McKenna has found Somerville very different.
“What changed from BCMS to SHS?,” McKenna was asked.
“It’s more real. Like, the maturity between people. I feel like middle school is just messing around but high school is actual work that matters. The teachers also speak to us in a more mature way and we’re kinda trusted to take care of things like adults would. It’s a lot more freedom for sure.”
Hard work is something McKenna values a lot. He previously worked as a professional actor with the SAG-AFTRA (Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists), but currently owns a landscaping business. Since he started McKenna Lawn Care in the Spring of 2024 business has been booming. He’s immensely grateful for the constant support he’s received from friends and family. McKenna dreams of being an entrepreneur and opening another business later in life. McKenna Lawn Care is just a test run to see how well he can manage the business setting and to provide him with experience in the field. He hopes to attend Rutgers business school and secure a degree in business management. We wish McKenna the best of luck with all his future endeavors!
Kieran’s Priorities:
Family
Academics
Extracurriculars
Work
Socials
Advice from Kieran McKenna:
“Grades aren’t always the most important thing. Just because grades show one thing doesn’t mean you can’t be another thing. Do good, but don’t stress out too much.”
“Smile! You should always smile. Spread kindness and positivity because it doesn’t cost you anything.”
“Make good connections with your teachers. They are here to help you.”
“Be outgoing! It helps you make so many friends and makes you feel better.”